Built in the early 20th-century, the 38-room governor's mansion demanded a great deal from its early inhabitants. Gubernatorial families were faced with sizable upkeep and furnishing the large home proved problematic at first. The mansion nearly met an early demise when the Board of Health gave the residence a low rating and suggested it be demolshed, which Governor Angus W. McLean refused.

First ladies of the state must be prepared to serve the state in a multitude of roles, whether being a hostess at the Executive Mansion, deliver speeches, inaugurate buildings, and generally serve the public. Highlighted in the article are the most fascinating and active first ladies, beginning with Lady Berkeley, who was married to three governors of Carolina during the colonial period.